DAY: DAY: MAY 12, 2024

• 5-12-2024CAN I TAKE YOUR ORDER—AND YOUR DATA? THE HIDDEN REASON RETAILERS ARE REPLACING STAFF WITH AI BOTS You might have seen viral videos of Wendy’s drive-thru customers in the United States ordering their fast food from the firm’s generative AI bot Wendy’s FreshAI. Most show a very human-like transaction punctuated with cries of amazement at how fast, accurate and polite the system is. While the system and others like it are in their infancy, and some still rely heavily on human assistance, retailers are investing huge sums in AI to replace human workers. Why the rush to automate? It might seem like it’s all about slashing
• 5-12-2024AI FILM FESTIVAL GIVES GLIMPSE OF CINEMA’S FUTURE With fantastical characters including mud people and giant grandmothers, an AI film festival is giving a glimpse of the storytelling made possible by the novel technology. Nearly 3,000 short films were submitted to the festival organized by Runway AI, one of the leading start-ups in the field of AI-powered video generation. The 10 films selected put the filmmakers’ vivid imaginations on display, with their stories set in aesthetically stunning universes. “There is a perception of … AI- driven filmmaking and creation as having a very specific style
• 5-12-2024AI SYSTEMS ARE ALREADY SKILLED AT DECEIVING AND MANIPULATING HUMANS, STUDY SHOWS Many artificial intelligence (AI) systems have already learned how to deceive humans, even systems that have been trained to be helpful and honest. In a review article published in the journal Patterns on May 10, researchers describe the risks of deception by AI systems and call for governments to develop strong regulations to address this issue as soon as possible. “AI developers do not have a confident understanding of what causes undesirable AI behaviors
• 5-12-2024THE END OF THE PACKAGE HOLIDAY PROVIDER? BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY COULD REVOLUTIONIZE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES Forget the middleman—blockchain technology could lead to the end of the traditional package holiday provider, putting power back into the hands of customers, according to a new study from the University of Surrey. The research looked into user acceptance of blockchain-based sharing platforms similar to Airbnb. The study found that blockchain technology could eliminate intermediaries, such as holiday providers, potentially slashing costs by bypassing booking platforms. The study also suggests that property owners stand to gain from blockchain adoption and gain more direct income
• 5-12-2024NOW THEY FEAR IT WAS A SCAM Sleep-deprived and anxious about feeding their babies, tens of thousands of moms in Illinois and elsewhere recently turned to a variety of Facebook groups offering support for breastfeeding, pumping breast milk and postpartum care. Direct responses were often remarkably prompt from the creator and admin of these groups, a Facebook user named “Cathy Marie Chan,” whose profile featured a smiling picture of a woman purporting to be a board-certified lactation consultant
• 5-12-2024HERE ARE FOUR RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR IN YOUR CHATBOT ‘FRIEND’ It’s been seven years since the launch of Replika, an artificially intelligent chatbot designed to be a friend to human users. Despite early warnings about the dangers of such AI friends, interest in friendships and even romantic relationships with AI is on the rise. The Google Play store shows more than 30 million total downloads of Replika and two of its major competitors since their respective launches. With one in four people around the world reporting being lonely, it is no wonder so many are drawn to the promise
• 5-12-2024CALL FOR SAFEGUARDS TO PREVENT UNWANTED ‘HAUNTINGS’ BY AI CHATBOTS OF DEAD LOVED ONES Without design safety standards, artificial intelligence that allows users to hold text and voice conversations with lost loved ones runs the risk of causing psychological harm and even digitally “haunting” those left behind, according to University of Cambridge researchers. “Deadbots” or “Griefbots” are AI chatbots that simulate the language patterns and personality traits of the dead
• 5-12-2024TURING TEST STUDY SHOWS HUMANS RATE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS MORE ‘MORAL’ THAN OTHER PEOPLE A new study has found that when people are presented with two answers to an ethical question, most will think the answer from artificial intelligence (AI) is better than the response from another person. “Attributions Toward Artificial Agents in a Modified Moral Turing Test
• 5-12-2024FAKE US SCHOOL AUDIO STOKES AI ALARM The fabricated audio clip of the Maryland school principal underscores the ease with which widely available AI and editing tools can be misused to impersonate celebrities and everyday citizens alike. A fabricated audio clip of a US high school principal prompted a torrent of outrage, leaving him battling allegations of racism and anti-Semitism in a case that has sparked new alarm about AI manipulation. Police charged a disgruntled staff member at the Maryland school with manufacturing the recording that surfaced in January
• 5-12-2024ELECTRONIC MUSIC WITH A HUMAN RHYTHM
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS TEST AI SYSTEMS’ ABILITY TO SOLVE THE NEW YORK TIMES’ CONNECTIONS PUZZLE
• 5-12-2024SCIENTISTS CONVERT CHICKEN FAT INTO ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES
• 5-12-2024RED, YELLOW, GREEN … AND WHITE? SMARTER VEHICLES COULD MEAN BIG CHANGES FOR THE TRAFFIC LIGHT
• 5-12-2024FRENCH ART GROUP USES BRAINWAVES AND AI TO RECREATE LANDSCAPES
• 5-12-2024MICROSOFT, AMAZON TO INVEST BILLIONS IN FRENCH TECH
• 5-12-2024NEW RESEARCH SHOWS HOW CHILD-LIKE LANGUAGE LEARNING IS POSSIBLE USING AI TOOLS
• 5-12-2024TEAM DESIGNS ROBOTS TO HELP WITH HUMAN HABITATION IN SPACE
• 5-12-2024TRADING BETWEEN HOUSEHOLDS IN SMART ENERGY COMMUNITIES
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP AI-POWERED ‘EYE’ FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE TO ‘SEE’ OBJECTS
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP A BIOMECHANICAL DATASET FOR BADMINTON PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
• 5-12-2024AMAZON’S NEW FEES ON SELLERS LIKENED TO ‘KICK IN THE GUT’
• 5-12-2024ALMOST HALF OF IT COULD COME FROM PENNSYLVANIA WASTEWATER
• 5-12-2024NEW LARGE LEARNING MODEL SHOWS HOW AI MIGHT SHAPE LGBTQIA+ ADVOCACY
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHER EXPLAINS WHY WE SHOULD CARE MORE ABOUT CONVERGING TECHNOLOGIES
• 5-12-2024COMMERCIAL JET MAKER AIRBUS IS STAYING HUMBLE EVEN AS BOEING FLOUNDERS. THERE’S A REASON FOR THAT
• 5-12-2024BOLSTER SAFEGUARDS AFTER HEALTH CARE CYBERATTACK
• 5-12-2024HUNDREDS OF CITIES HAVE ACHIEVED ZERO ROAD DEATHS IN A YEAR—HERE’S HOW THEY DID IT
• 5-12-2024DIGITAL HUMAN MODEL AIDS DESIGN OF MOTORCYCLES, BASED ON RIDING POSTURE
• 5-12-2024AI TECHNOLOGY IS SHOWING CULTURAL BIASES—HERE’S WHY AND WHAT CAN BE DONE
• 5-12-2024RESEARCH SHOWS VR POSES PRIVACY RISKS FOR KIDS—PARENTS AREN’T AS WORRIED AS THEY SHOULD BE
• 5-12-2024NEW SOFTWARE TRAINED ON PHOTOGRAPHIC DATABASE MAY ALLOW FACIAL RECOGNITION BENEATH THE MASK
• 5-12-2024SMARTPHONE APP CAN UNMASK FORGED DOCUMENTS
• 5-12-2024NEW STUDY FINDS AI-GENERATED EMPATHY HAS ITS LIMITS
• 5-12-2024ROBOTIC SYSTEM FEEDS PEOPLE WITH SEVERE MOBILITY LIMITATIONS
• 5-12-2024PROTOTYPE BROWSER EXTENSION ADDS WIKIPEDIA-LIKE CITATIONS ON YOUTUBE TO CURB MISINFORMATION
• 5-12-2024SAMSUNG TO BUY FRENCH MEDICAL AI FIRM SONIO
• 5-12-2024AI AND HOLOGRAPHY BRING 3D AUGMENTED REALITY TO REGULAR GLASSES
• 5-12-2024DOVE’S LATEST ‘REAL BEAUTY’ DRIVE—AND WHY AI WILL BE HARDER TO DITCH THAN IT THINKS
• 5-12-2024RESEARCH CASTS NEW LIGHT ON BIKE SAFETY IN THE AGE OF SELF-DRIVING CARS
• 5-12-2024A SECOND LIFE FOR DISCARDED LITHIUM-ION CELLS
• 5-12-2024SINCE TESLA RECALLED ITS VEHICLES IN 2023, THERE HAVE BEEN 20 ACCIDENTS AND INVESTIGATORS ARE ASKING WHY

MAY 12, 2024

• 5-12-2024CAN I TAKE YOUR ORDER—AND YOUR DATA? THE HIDDEN REASON RETAILERS ARE REPLACING STAFF WITH AI BOTS
• 5-12-2024AI FILM FESTIVAL GIVES GLIMPSE OF CINEMA’S FUTURE
• 5-12-2024AI SYSTEMS ARE ALREADY SKILLED AT DECEIVING AND MANIPULATING HUMANS, STUDY SHOWS
• 5-12-2024THE END OF THE PACKAGE HOLIDAY PROVIDER? BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY COULD REVOLUTIONIZE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
• 5-12-2024NOW THEY FEAR IT WAS A SCAM
• 5-12-2024HERE ARE FOUR RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR IN YOUR CHATBOT ‘FRIEND’
• 5-12-2024CALL FOR SAFEGUARDS TO PREVENT UNWANTED ‘HAUNTINGS’ BY AI CHATBOTS OF DEAD LOVED ONES
• 5-12-2024TURING TEST STUDY SHOWS HUMANS RATE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS MORE ‘MORAL’ THAN OTHER PEOPLE
• 5-12-2024FAKE US SCHOOL AUDIO STOKES AI ALARM
• 5-12-2024ELECTRONIC MUSIC WITH A HUMAN RHYTHM
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS TEST AI SYSTEMS’ ABILITY TO SOLVE THE NEW YORK TIMES’ CONNECTIONS PUZZLE
• 5-12-2024SCIENTISTS CONVERT CHICKEN FAT INTO ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES
• 5-12-2024RED, YELLOW, GREEN … AND WHITE? SMARTER VEHICLES COULD MEAN BIG CHANGES FOR THE TRAFFIC LIGHT
• 5-12-2024FRENCH ART GROUP USES BRAINWAVES AND AI TO RECREATE LANDSCAPES
• 5-12-2024MICROSOFT, AMAZON TO INVEST BILLIONS IN FRENCH TECH
• 5-12-2024NEW RESEARCH SHOWS HOW CHILD-LIKE LANGUAGE LEARNING IS POSSIBLE USING AI TOOLS
• 5-12-2024TEAM DESIGNS ROBOTS TO HELP WITH HUMAN HABITATION IN SPACE
• 5-12-2024TRADING BETWEEN HOUSEHOLDS IN SMART ENERGY COMMUNITIES
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP AI-POWERED ‘EYE’ FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE TO ‘SEE’ OBJECTS
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP A BIOMECHANICAL DATASET FOR BADMINTON PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
• 5-12-2024AMAZON’S NEW FEES ON SELLERS LIKENED TO ‘KICK IN THE GUT’
• 5-12-2024ALMOST HALF OF IT COULD COME FROM PENNSYLVANIA WASTEWATER
• 5-12-2024NEW LARGE LEARNING MODEL SHOWS HOW AI MIGHT SHAPE LGBTQIA+ ADVOCACY
• 5-12-2024RESEARCHER EXPLAINS WHY WE SHOULD CARE MORE ABOUT CONVERGING TECHNOLOGIES
• 5-12-2024COMMERCIAL JET MAKER AIRBUS IS STAYING HUMBLE EVEN AS BOEING FLOUNDERS. THERE’S A REASON FOR THAT
• 5-12-2024BOLSTER SAFEGUARDS AFTER HEALTH CARE CYBERATTACK
• 5-12-2024HUNDREDS OF CITIES HAVE ACHIEVED ZERO ROAD DEATHS IN A YEAR—HERE’S HOW THEY DID IT
• 5-12-2024DIGITAL HUMAN MODEL AIDS DESIGN OF MOTORCYCLES, BASED ON RIDING POSTURE
• 5-12-2024AI TECHNOLOGY IS SHOWING CULTURAL BIASES—HERE’S WHY AND WHAT CAN BE DONE
• 5-12-2024RESEARCH SHOWS VR POSES PRIVACY RISKS FOR KIDS—PARENTS AREN’T AS WORRIED AS THEY SHOULD BE
• 5-12-2024NEW SOFTWARE TRAINED ON PHOTOGRAPHIC DATABASE MAY ALLOW FACIAL RECOGNITION BENEATH THE MASK
• 5-12-2024SMARTPHONE APP CAN UNMASK FORGED DOCUMENTS
• 5-12-2024NEW STUDY FINDS AI-GENERATED EMPATHY HAS ITS LIMITS
• 5-12-2024ROBOTIC SYSTEM FEEDS PEOPLE WITH SEVERE MOBILITY LIMITATIONS
• 5-12-2024PROTOTYPE BROWSER EXTENSION ADDS WIKIPEDIA-LIKE CITATIONS ON YOUTUBE TO CURB MISINFORMATION
• 5-12-2024SAMSUNG TO BUY FRENCH MEDICAL AI FIRM SONIO
• 5-12-2024AI AND HOLOGRAPHY BRING 3D AUGMENTED REALITY TO REGULAR GLASSES
• 5-12-2024DOVE’S LATEST ‘REAL BEAUTY’ DRIVE—AND WHY AI WILL BE HARDER TO DITCH THAN IT THINKS
• 5-12-2024RESEARCH CASTS NEW LIGHT ON BIKE SAFETY IN THE AGE OF SELF-DRIVING CARS
• 5-12-2024A SECOND LIFE FOR DISCARDED LITHIUM-ION CELLS
• 5-12-2024SINCE TESLA RECALLED ITS VEHICLES IN 2023, THERE HAVE BEEN 20 ACCIDENTS AND INVESTIGATORS ARE ASKING WHY

Looking for some feedback on my menstrual cycle -
I’m 33, have 2 kids, ages 2 and 4 (both c sections). I have had my period back since 9 weeks post partum (even though I breastfed exclusively), and actually just stopped breastfeeding in January of this year.
Since getting my period back, they have been regular as far as cycle length usually 27 days, but are so much more clotty now and seem to be getting shorter. For a while, I would bleed for a couple days, then stop bleeding, then it would come back super clotty for the last couple days. It hasn’t so much been following that pattern lately, but still noticing overall more clots in my cycle than before I had my 2nd child.
My most recent cycle was only 25 days (instead of my usual 27 days) and I had a quarter sized clot and have had several small ones with bleeding for almost full 6 days when normally it’s 5 days of bleeding. Also, I feel like this cycle is going to be maybe even shorter because I had egg white discharge while still somewhat spotting on cycle day 7, so thinking I have already ovulated.
I’ve read that clots indicate Estrogen dominance, but I’m also wondering if it could possibly be related to my c sections as well? I had a retroverted uterus before so wondering if maybe it’s because my uterus is more tilted now after my second c section than before? Or maybe my hormones are just still regulating? Just looking to see if anyone else has had similar experiences with their cycles changing like that. If you have had something similar and were able to get a healthy cycle back, what did you do?

I have recently stopped breastfeeding after 4 and a half years (two children) I am now 20kgs up from my booking appointment with my first and I lost weight during that pregnancy. She was born in summer 2019 so between then I breastfed through the pandemic then was pregnant again shortly before she was 2 which is when I planned to stop feeding, I ended up feeding her right up until my son was born in early 2022, and I fed him until 2 months ago. So my body has been through a lot since 2018 and I’m trying to be kind to my self. Now my appetite has vanished and I’m trying to be very conscious of what I’m eating and checking calories to make sure I’m choosing lower fat options, I have never dieted before and don’t want to fall in to a yo-yo dieting pattern but I have 34kgs to loose to get back to a healthy BMI which I’ve not been in over a decade now and I would like to get there for my kids is anyone one else in a similar boat with a lot to loose and feeling overwhelmed? I could do with some encouragement and support!

My boyfriend and I have been together for 9 years and welcomed a baby earlier this year. We were actually in the process of breaking up before I found out that I was pregnant but we decided to make jt work for the sake of our new family. When things aren’t going well, which is often, I feel like we made the absolute wrong decision and I want to go back in time and change it. Our baby is the light of our lives and this has nothing to do with him or any regrets of having him because there are none. Except for the fact that he is what kept my bf and I together.
I have been nothing but a soul sucking, aggressive and violent person towards him. Our highs are high but are lows are even lower. I’ve always felt like he was emotionally distant so I’ve had to overcompensate with my options. However, he has put up with so much shit over these past few years and has never as much as even raised his voice half a decibel at me. He wanted to help me but I wasn’t ready to be helped. Now, he doesn’t have the energy to. I’ve sucked absolutely every last drop of normalcy, motivation, and frankly, the will to live from him and I hate that instead of having this be a wake up moment, I want to die.
Any other person would pick themselves up by their bootstraps and say “I’m going to do better” and ACTUALLY DO IT. I, on the other hand, will inevitably fall back into the same pattern of being a dark cloud over him and freaking out over any little remark that I feel like is an attack on me. I’ve been seeing a wonderful therapist for a couple years now but I’m not getting better because I get triggered by everything he says to me because I take it as an attack. I want to get back on Lamictal but I can’t until I finish breastfeeding.
I can’t believe that I took a motivated, full of life, dreamer and doer — and turned him into a puddle of goo.

I read this post on LinkedIn originally from one of the top software engineering manager at google and I really wanted share because I am sure that will help lots of people on their career trajectory:
Dhirendra Sinha: Software engineering manager at google. This is what he has shared:
In 2001, I started my career as a software engineer at D. E. Shaw in India.
Today, In 2024, I’m a Software Engineering Manager at Google in California.
I’ve worked at early and late stage startups and large companies like Cisco, Oracle, Yahoo, and Google.
I went from an entry level Software Engineer to a Principal Engineer before I moved on to leadership position, 10 years ago.
One question I get asked a lot is, “What is the growth path for a Software Engineer as an individual contributor?”
Well, here’s my answer to all of you, note that It may vary from company to company, but typically it looks like this.
➥Software Engineer 1
-Eagerness to learn
-Good CS Fundamentals
-Good understanding of algorithms and data structures
➥ Software Engineer 2
-Deliver high code quality with good speed
-Design components with guidance
-Good command on algorithms and data structures
➥Sr. Software Engineer
-Work Independently
-Design systems and own modules
-Deliver high-quality code with high delivery velocity
➥Lead Software Engineer
-Expertise in system architecture
-Break down ambiguous problems
-Do design reviews and guide other engineers
-Own projects and execution, demonstrate leadership skills
Around this time, you may choose to go into management, but let’s stick to the individual contributors path for now.
➥ Principal Software Engineer
-Ability to align technology strategies with business goals.
-Leadership in making coding standards and best practices.
-Expert in software architecture and design patterns.
-Strategies & own tech direction of your team
➥ Sr. Principal Software Engineer
-Consultant/ tech advisor for the entire Business unit
➥ Distinguished Software Engineer
-Take care of radical changes, the direction of Business unit, and research
➥ Fellow
-Creating Business Units
-Finding new fertile grounds
-Defining new technical direction of the company

P.S: If you're a senior engineer, tech lead, or a new manager and looking to transition to more senior roles,
please checkout it’s name on LinkedIn :Dhirendra Sinha.
I share this post to some of the seniors engineering manager , and senior engineer I am currently working at because I wanted to find if where I am right now makes sens.
Most of engineering managers and senior engineers told me , I am between software engineer2 , which is my current position , and senior software and hopefully, will get a promotion soon.
I would really appreciate anyone opinion about this post in general.

In the contemporary landscape of dietary science and health, the discourse surrounding ultra-processed food occupies a pivotal role. This discussion bridges the gap between the mechanics of food processing and its far-reaching implications for human health, nutrition, and disease management. The essence of a healthy diet, rich in nutrients and low in artificial additives, stands in stark contrast to the reality of today’s global food systems, which are increasingly dominated by ultra-processed foods. These foods, characterized by high levels of refinement and the presence of numerous additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, have become a cornerstone of modern consumption patterns, with profound implications for public health.
Unpacking the Consequences of Convenience
Ultra-processed foods have reshaped the culinary landscape under the guise of convenience, offering time-saving solutions for the fast-paced lifestyles of the 21st century. However, this convenience comes at a cost, not just economically but in terms of health outcomes. The nutrient-depleted nature of these foods, combined with their high caloric density and content of unhealthy fats, sugars, and salts, poses significant health risks. These include an increased predisposition to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and a myriad of other chronic health conditions.
Illuminating Studies on Diet and Disease
Recent scientific inquiries have shed light on the specific health risks associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods. One study focusing on the consumption of red, white, and processed meat and its association with kidney damage and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in women reveals a direct correlation between the intake of processed meats and the odds of developing microalbuminuria, severe albuminuria, higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, and DN. This underscores the tangible health risks posed by certain types of processed foods, further illustrating the importance of dietary choices in the prevention and management of chronic diseases.
Another pivotal study examining the metabolic profiles and long-term risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders provides critical insights into the relationship between diet, metabolic health, and mental well-being. The findings highlight how high levels of glucose and triglycerides, coupled with low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), could significantly increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders. These discoveries underscore the broader implications of dietary choices, not just on physical health but also on mental and emotional well-being.
Towards a Nutrient-Rich Future
The evidence presented by these studies serves as a compelling argument for a shift towards more nutrient-rich, minimally processed diets. Such diets not only support physical health but also offer protective benefits against mental health disorders. The promotion of whole foods, rich in natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, is paramount in counteracting the health risks associated with ultra-processed food consumption.
Herbal Formula
Given the concerns highlighted regarding the consumption of ultra-processed foods and their impact on health, particularly in relation to metabolic dysregulation and its potential to exacerbate conditions such as diabetic nephropathy, depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, a herbal formula aimed at supporting metabolic balance, renal health, and mental well-being would be beneficial. The following is a carefully curated herbal formula based on phytochemical knowledge and clinical insights, designed to support the body’s natural processes in addressing these concerns:
Herbal Formula for Metabolic and Mental Well-being

1. **Berberine (from Berberis vulgaris or Coptis chinensis)**
   - **Role**: Berberine has been extensively studied for its positive effects on blood glucose regulation and lipid metabolism. It can help in managing high blood glucose levels and improving lipid profiles, which are common issues stemming from the consumption of ultra-processed foods.
   - **Dosage**: 500 mg, taken 2-3 times daily before meals.
   
2. **Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)**
   - **Role**: Cinnamon is well-regarded for its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it a valuable addition to a metabolic-supporting herbal formula.
   - **Dosage**: 1-2 grams of powdered cinnamon daily or as a tea.
   
3. **Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)**
   - **Role**: Dandelion root supports liver health and has mild diuretic properties, which can aid in detoxification processes and support renal health, potentially mitigating risks associated with diabetic nephropathy.
   - **Dosage**: 500-1000 mg of dried root as a tea or in capsule form, daily.
   
   1. **Omega-3 Fatty Acids (from flaxseeds or algae)**
   - **Role**: While not an herb, omega-3 supplements can support mental health, lower triglycerides, and have anti-inflammatory properties, addressing several concerns raised by ultra-processed food consumption.
   - **Dosage**: 1-2 grams daily of EPA and DHA combined.
   
4. **Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)**
   - **Role**: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps in managing stress and anxiety. It supports the body's resilience to stress and can improve overall well-being.
   - **Dosage**: 300-500 mg of root extract daily.
   

Considerations
- **Safety and Interactions**: Before starting any herbal regimen, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals taking prescription medications, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with pre-existing health conditions. For example, St. John's Wort is known to interact with a wide range of pharmaceuticals.
Conclusion
The dialogue on ultra-processed food, food processing, and nutrition intersects at the crucial point of human health and disease prevention. As we navigate the complexities of modern dietary patterns and their health implications, it becomes increasingly clear that the path to a healthier future lies in embracing diets that prioritize nutritional quality over convenience. By fostering greater awareness of the impacts of dietary choices and advocating for food systems that support the availability and accessibility of healthy, minimally processed foods, we can make strides towards mitigating the health risks associated with ultra-processed food consumption. This journey towards improved health and nutrition requires a collective effort, informed by scientific evidence and guided by a commitment to the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38564219/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38710706/
​
​

My 3-month-old baby has very different daytime and nighttime routines. At night, the routine is perfect. Only 1 or 2 awakenings for breastfeeding, usually in a 6-4 or 5-3-2 pattern. However, during the day, the routine is very poor. We've been trying to be consistent with a sort of EAT-PLAY-EAT-SLEEP routine, but without success. His naps, which were 1-1.5 hours long two weeks ago, are now only 15-30 minutes. I've tried everything: exercise ball, contact naps, dark room, daytime bath.. No success.
At night, he sleeps in his crib in 5-10 minutes after the routine.
Any tips to improve the naps? Whether the nap is in contact or in the crib, they last a maximum of 30 minutes..

Hello everyone!
I really need your suggestions because I can't handle any more sleepless nights. I am a first time mom.
Baby is 12 months old and I just stopped breastfeeding one week ago. She has NEVER slept through the night. We are talking about 3-4 wake ups every night.
We sleep trained her at 6 months so she learned to put herself to sleep but the wake ups never stopped. And as soon as she learned to stand up in her bed the sleep training went to hell. I would put her in her bed and leave, and she would immediately stand up and scream for hours. I couldn't take it so I rocked or feed her to sleep.
Since I stopped breastfeeding I thought things would get better but no. It's the same.
Bed time is supposed to be 9:00pm but she refuses to sleep until 10:00pm while screaming in my arms. She wakes up at least 3 times and screams for 30minutes to 1 hour in my arms until she sleeps again. She wakes up at 7:00am to 8:00am and there is no way to make her sleep more. She only takes one nap at 1:00pm until 2:30pm. She refuses to sleep more or have another nap.
Doctor says everything is normal physically, but the sleep patterns are not normal for this age. She told me "you have to find a way for her to sleep more" but no suggestions about the way.
I am lost. I haven't slept for more than 6 consecutive hours in one year. My mood is crap.
Any help or suggestions will be very much appreciated!

Part 3
Jerry Williams, Godslayer
Somewhere in the Sixteenth World
I waved a hand and the pair of screaming gods vanished. The power they fed me, my wife and daughter remained, however. Because they weren't gone. Merely invisible and intangible. They would continue to follow me around as the magic on the their crosses rotely followed the instructions programmed into it.
We all changed our clothes. T-shirts, tennis shoes and cargo shorts were something we all had in hammerspace, and which were common enough in this place. We all changed quickly, not speaking, because the weight of our path rode heavily on our shoulders.
We emerged from the dense thicket in the middle of a park and walked down the street, unnoticed, except by the occasional magical sensitive, who could feel the power crackling off us. Even they did little more than glance up at us from their phones.
We moved down the crowded streets, Aaina eyeing the cyberpunk-esque city all around us with interest. She had always liked cyberpunk, and her bedroom in our house was still festooned with glowing neon and RGB strips.
The inhabitants of this world had figured out how to make holograms at some point in the past, and they were used extensively for advertising. Unlike the ones I've seen in movies, these weren't glitchy or low-res affairs, but clear, sharp and bright, if still quite a bit translucent. Inanna eyed the hologram dancers in front of a business whose rate chart, posted in the window, marked it as a brothel, but even her libido could not compete against the seriousness of our task, and she made no move towards it.
I found the place I was looking for. A type of business known locally as a 'Pledger', which was functionally the same thing as a pawn shop. I opened the door and stepped inside, Inanna and Aaina on my heels. I felt the pair of minor twinges as the the two crucifixes passed through the threshold behind us.
A random assortment of goods was scattered on the shelves, mostly tools and electronics. A corner of the store had been given over to minor magical artifacts, and that section had the same antique-store feel that any collection of artifacts would. The ornate, handmade nature of most of the contents was immediately identifiable, even if I couldn't sense the sinks and arcane patterns inside them.
The man behind the counter was an older man, heavily balding and with a thick spare tire around the middle of an otherwise skinny frame. His eyes were deeply-set and piggish, and he eyed us suspiciously as we walked in, no doubt recognizing that we weren't his usual clientele.
"Can I help you?" he asked as I approached the desk. Inanna and Aaina hung back, browsing the aisles.
"I need to speak to George," I said. He narrowed his eyes. "It's about a matter involving a dog," I continued. He nodded slightly as I spoke the passphrase I'd taken from Vintress' mind.
"Does George know you?"
"By reputation, at least," I said.
He continued to eye me, judging whether or not I was a threat. Finally, he spoke. "Just a minute," he said, then touched a button on the computer in front of him.
"Someone here to see you," he said. He'd judged wrongly.
The door behind him opened, and I gazed upon the human face of Glenmael, god of spies. He met my eyes and froze for just a second before he darted back inside.
I leaped over the counter, ignoring the proprietor's shout of alarm and slammed through the door. My blade and shield appeared on my back as I ran down a dimly-lit hall towards a half-open door that showed daylight through it.
Outside, I saw him running down an alley that could have come from a Hollywood film set. Brick walls, dumpsters, trash cans and steaming grates in the ground all contributed to the fictional atmosphere. I ran after him, knowing my limbs were much more efficiently enhanced than his own. The gods really didn't put enough effort into making their avatars strong and fast enough. He reached the intersection with another alley and turned left. I followed, and as I came around the corner, I was surprised to find him right there.
Immediately, I felt the assault begin. As with every other time I'd fought a god, he fought with magic, body, emotions, thoughts, memories and ideas. Unlike the other times, however, I was flush with power. Multiple divinities coursed through me, each one enhanced by the power I was still drawing from my captive batteries.
Every attack failed, crashing against my defenses like waves against a rocky shore. I slowed down, moving only my arms, and only as quickly as I had to, to block physical strikes from him. I let him go like that for a minute, giving Inanna and Aaina time to join me, and giving him time to realize that there was nothing he could do to stop what was coming.
When my physical body heard the door opening and heard the distinctive footsteps of two of the three most important women in my life, I finally struck back.
I overwhelmed him with bloodlust, then hid away all of his knowledge from him, forcing him to keep it a secret from himself. He went wild, a mindless animal just trying to hurt me. But his attacks degenerated in sophistication to the point that I was able to let avatars handle them. I stepped back, and prepared the modified wet blanket that I had first used on Astoram, since improved several times over. When it was ready, I threw it over him.
The intense, insightful view of reality that being a god working through his divinity endowed narrows back to the pinprick that was a mortal's perception of the world. A sweating, trembling man collapsed to the pavement in front of me and began to scramble back on all fours. I drew Godslayer and reached out, placing the very tip against his philtrum and drawing a tiny pinpoint of blood.
"Please don't!" he begged, his eyes glued to the shimmering blade that threatened to end his entire existence.
"Don't what?" I asked.
"Don't destroy me!" he hissed. "Don't take my godhood and pass it on to one of Grandfather's emanations, merged with one of those mortal women you rescued!"
"Huh," Inanna said beside me.
"He is the god of spies," Aaina said with a shrug, on my other side.
"I'm not surprised you know more about what's going on," I told him. "In fact, I'm happy that you do."
"I never did anything to you!" he wailed.
"You helped Vintress," I said. "You advocated for crushing humanity beneath your heels."
"I did not!" he protested. "I helped all the factions! I'm friends with some of the Supremacists, but that's it! I wasn't one of them! I helped Yarm, too!"
"Yes, so I'm told," I said.
He breathed heavily for a moment, just watching me.
"Please don't," he whined after the silence stretched out too long.
"I'm not going to destroy you," I said.
He laughed. A nervous, frightened laugh. "You're not?" he asked, his voice full of a tentative hopefulness.
"Well, I might," I said. "If you force my hand. By, say, attacking me again. But I'm not planning on destroying you. I have other plans."
"I can help you," he offered breathlessly. "I can work only for you. I can help you find all of the Supremacists. Every last one. I can help you know which of the Separatists were most sympathetic to them, I can-"
"Enough!" I snapped. I couldn't stand here and listen to a literal god prostrate himself any more. It hurt my soul to witness.
"I don't trust you," I said. "But I very much have a use for your domain. So you're coming with me, so that I can give it to someone I do trust."
Glenmael whimpered, but there was nothing he could do to stop me.
----
Kathy Evenson, Professional
Inside a tavern, somewhere in the Seventh World
"Hold on," she said. She pointed to the dark-clad one with the shortswords. "John, right?" He nodded. She pointed to the other man, the sniper "And you're James."
"I am," he said in a voice that sounded so much like Jerry's it almost hurt to hear. She pointed to the wizardly twins. "And you two are Mark and Roger, right?"
"We are," they said as one.
"And you're Luna," Kathy finished, shaking her finger at the sole woman. "And all of you are the children of a version of Jerry who now goes by Gerard, who married Sarisa and settled down, but then went insane as he tried to take up her pursuit of The Plan."
"Right," Luna said.
"And how old are you all?"
"I'm thirty," Luna said. "John's the oldest, he's thirty four. James is thirty one, and the twins are twenty nine."
"That's..." Kathy started to say, then shook her head. Time travel shenanigans were becoming tiresome. She knew exactly how these siblings could be that age. She just didn't know why. But she'd get to that.
"Jesus fuck, Irish twins," Kathy said. "All five of you, almost."
"What's that mean?" one of the twins asked.
"It means your mom was getting pregnant with the next of you while she was still breastfeeding the last one," Kathy said. "Not exactly the Sarisa I knew. There was another Jerry-slash-Sarisa pairing in a timeline that's cut off from us now, and from what I know, which admittedly isn't much, that was more of a once-in-a-while, just-because-she-loved-him thing."
"Our father is the kind of man to push people into doing things they don't want to do," John said bitterly. James rolled his eyes. "Can we not talk about mom's sex life, please?"
"Hear hear," both of the twins said, wincing.
"Sorry, I... Uh... Well, I knew your mom. Or a version of her, anyways."
"We heard about you," James said.
"Oh?" Kathy asked. "Your folks knew some version of me?"
The five of them glanced at each other and then shrugged. Luna met Kathy's eyes.
"Not exactly," she said.
"Explain," Kathy said.
"We've heard about you, not a different version of you."
"Say what now? From who?" Kathy asked. Alarm bells went off in her mind as the security instincts instilled in her by Jerry, the Group and the Agency cried out in protest at being known by reputation this far out from her home.
They looked at each other again, uncertainly. Kathy gave them a second to provide an answer before she demanded one again.
"Who told you about me?" she said, her voice harder now.
"We... We can't say," one of the twins said. "We're not supposed to..."
Kathy wracked her brain for who it could be. There were quite a few people who knew who she was, but they were all people close to her. Gary, Chris, Julie, Inanna, Lya... And Jerry....
There had been a Jerry that Spectre had found in the Void, she remembered. One who seemed to have some relationship with an insane version of Sarisa...
"It was a version of your father, wasn't it?" she asked. The looks on their faces confirmed it, though Luna quickly composed herself and shook her head.
"No, I can't say who it was, but..."
"Give it up, girlie," Kathy said. "I can tell from the looks on your faces, not to mention the fact that your aura showed clear signs of deception when you tried to deny it."
Luna froze and stared for a moment until John put a hand on her shoulder. "He warned us not to underestimate her," he said.
Kathy sighed and walked over to the table where Kells waited for her. Once she'd gotten the siblings inside, his men had relaxed and gone back to their drinks and conversations, but she could still feel the tension. They were ready, waiting for his signal.
She eyed the man up and down again, then grinned.
"All's well, miss?" he asked, quirking an eyebrow at her. Kathy grabbed her chair and dragged it around to his side, then sat down in it and turned to recline against him.
"Yeah. You think there's enough rooms to put this lot up for the night next door?" The building next door was a long, two-story inn. She'd already secured herself a room for the night before wandering over here.
Kells put his arm around her, so she grabbed a hold of it and rested his hand on her belly.
"I can have th'boys double the guard on the carts tonight," he said. "That'd free up a pair o beds, methinks."
"Do that," she said. "And you won't need your room, either. They can take those three."
"Where d'ya expect me t'sleep, I wonder?"
Kathy turned her head to meet his eyes, noticing the sparkle in them. He knew the answer, of course. And that was pretty hot.
"You're not gonna get a whole lot of sleep tonight," she said. Kells nodded thoughtfully, then drained his cup.
"Well, iffen I ain't t'be sleepin' much, seems fittin' t'go ahead and get an early start on it."
Kathy laughed and stood.
----
Liam MacReady, On Duty
The Divine Crisis Management Group Headquarters, Baltimore, MD
Liam poked at his keyboard until the report looked good enough, then went ahead and submitted it without bothering to do his usual check for spelling and grammar issues. He was still closing windows when the door opened and Bob Brown walked in.
"Hey Bob," he said.
"Hey, Liam," Bob replied, sitting down in one of the chairs next to the computer desk and tossing his feet up on the side table.
"Casual night, huh?" Liam asked.
"I'm getting comfortable," Bob said.
"Oh?"
"Yup. Because we're gonna have an uncomfortable conversation."
"Shit," Liam cursed. He turned to face Bob.
"Look, if you want to know how it works, ask Julie. It's not my place to describe our sex life to-"
"Jesus Christ, Liam," Bob choked, dropping his feet and sitting up properly in the chair. Liam laughed. It was the first time he'd ever seen the man look shocked or... Well, anything but mildly amused. And he'd seen Bob in the middle of a dire firefight before. The man was nigh-unflappable.
"I don't want to... I mean, I'm not an idiot. I can figure out how that works. I have four fucking kids, you know?"
"With how many women?" Liam asked. Bob still hadn't quite recovered, which was tickling Liam pink.
"Just the one, Jesus Christ. I mean, I had girlfriends in high school and college, but I'm married now."
"Just checking. You don't often share a lot of info about your personal life, you know?"
Bob shook his head and chuckled, finally regaining his composure. "Yeah, well, that's a deeply-ingrained habit. Sorry. But yeah, I have four kids. Three girls, one boy. Oldest is sixteen, the youngest is nine."
"Okay, so if you weren't going to ask me the same question the rest of these chucklefucks always eventually work up the nerve to ask, then what were you planning on talking about?"
"Um, about Julie, actually," Bob said. Liam fixed him with a deadpan stare, to which the smaller man held up both hands. "Not like that."
"Okay, so what is it, then?"
"My son," Bob said. Liam frowned, then it suddenly clicked.
"Oh, shit. How old is he?"
"Fourteen."
"Okay, well, um, I don't really know that much myself, but you want me to see if Julie..."
"Yeah, that's kinda what I was angling at."
"You could ask her yourself, you know," Liam said.
"She's my boss," Bob replied. "Not my friend."
"She's not the only trans person working here. Jack Rorick used to be Anne Rorick. I think it was Anne, anyways. It was something with an A. Abigail, maybe? Anyways, it doesn't matter."
"It kinda does matter, uh, which way, you know? There's different standards and stuff."
"Cynthia Lepore from the armory," Liam went on. "And Ashley from research..."
"Jesus, do you keep a list, dude?"
"No, Julie meets up with them sometimes. There's this kind of support group thing that meets every other week. Talks about stuff, but mostly they try to help out newer girls. Baby trans girls, they call them. The ones who come out older, not the one who grew up with supportive parents, like Julie did."
"Yeah," Bob said, his eyes focused a thousand yards away. "That's... I mean, I want to be a supportive dad. But I come from a really traditional background, and I've been in a line of work that tends to not..." he waved his hands, trying to find the right words. Liam gave him another deadpan look.
"Bro, I was involved with an outlaw MC. Trust me, the Army ain't half as bigoted as a bunch of redneck outlaw gun runners yearning for the good old days when you could call people fags in public. You'll figure it out, as long as you want to."
"Fair enough," Bob said. "But yeah. I'd like you to ask Julie if I could bend her ear a bit. Maybe... I dunno."
"I'll ask her if her support group accepts minors," Liam said. "I'm pretty sure they will. It's gonna be cool, bro."
"Good," Bob said. He slapped his knees and stood. "Now excuse me, I'm going to go... I dunno. Go have a tea party with my youngest, I guess. Invite my son."
"Your daughter," Liam said. Bob met his eyes for a moment, then nodded. "My daughter," he said. He sighed.
"I always wanted to have a son."
"Me too, bro," Liam said. "Suck it up."
Bob nodded and walked to the door.
"Hey, did you read the memo about that confluence of the gods?" he asked.
"No, why?"
"It got called off. I guess the big guy's got them all scared for their lives. Only the Humanist faction would agree to show up, so they called it."
"Makes sense. What are your thoughts?"
"Williams has them backed into a corner," Bob said slowly. "People who get backed into corners tend to lash out."
"Yeah," Liam agreed.
"So we should probably be on our toes," Bob said. "If one or more of them go bad and come gunning for humanity, we're gonna be their prime target. And we're not gonna get a whole lot of warning."
"And it's gonna be a hell of a fight, with Williams running rogue," Liam agreed.
"Yeah." Bob paused a second, then left, closing the door behind him.
Liam ruminated for a moment, then sighed and opened up the report application. He pulled up his most recent end-of-shift report and opened it for editing. Best not to cut any corners, no matter how small.
Part 5

I've been working out and calorie counting, roughly 1800 per day, so it's truly not overly restrictive. Losing weight slow and steady for 4 mos, aiming for 20lbs more. Initially I was dividing it by meal but have switched to tracking for the whole day. However, I've noticed an interesting pattern. If I eat a small breakfast, I end up eating less calories all day or meeting my goal with ease. I feel less deprived because I know I have "room" in my calories and can fit in a snack or indulgent meal later if I want. Then I usually end up just eating normally for lunch and supper +/- a small snack, thinking "yay, I still have room for a big snack after supper" leaving maybe 300 cals remaining. But I don't really have junk food in the house so I won't end up eating all that most of the time! And then end up under on my calories (which I don't really want by much, I want to be consistent and nourish myself).
If I eat a big breakfast ~500-600 cals, the opposite happens. I feel like I have to be so strict on my meals the rest of the day. I worry I'll want to eat more than my alloted calories. I'll struggle and feel so snacky in the evening. I don't usually go over or maybe just by 50-100 cal but it is a STRUGGLE.
It doesn't seem to matter if my breakfast is high protein or nutritious. I think it's really a mental thing: a feeling of abundance and choice or feeling trapped.
So I idk. Is it unhealthy to eat a small breakfast if it gives me a sense of food freedom later in the day? I guess its not dissimilar to intermittent fasting, but I want to do something sustainable. Honestly until I had a kid a few years ago I rarely ate breakfast, or maybe just a smoothie, but now I wanted to model good habits (and was so hungry from breastfeeding the first while). I'm not blaming breakfast for my weight gain, because I didn't try to limit myself at all for years before this.
Just curious if anyone relates or has advice.
Small edit for grammaclarity prior to anyone commenting.
edit - thank you all so much for the validation!! there are too many comments to respond to each but I really appreciate all of them. I think I was worried that it was eating disorder behavior or something and I really do want to be mindful of health and sustainability. thank you!

Context: Baby is only 7 weeks so still early days, but we’ve gotten into a bit of a pattern where when I’m sleeping (we take shifts overnight so we can get some uninterrupted rest) my baby will just scream for hours and my husband will be unable to soothe him. I’m basically never subjected to this, don’t know if it’s just because of the time of day or whether he’s just very soothed by breastfeeding but I basically don’t have this issue. Last night when I got up at 3 and he was screaming I just breastfed him for 20 minutes and he passed out, and I was then able to sleep for another couple of hours.
I’m unsure of how to help my husband deal with this, as I know he’s having a hard time and feeling like a failure because he can’t get the baby to settle and I know the constant screaming must be torture to listen to.
We’re both on leave right now so I let him sleep in to get a good 8-9 hours and try to do washing, laundry etc when my son is in is cot as I get free time on my shifts where I know my husband often doesn’t. I also then tend to do more than him with the baby during the day so he does get some awake time where he doesn’t have to look after the baby.
Anyone have any other suggestions of things I can do to help him both physically and mentally get through this period? I know it won’t be forever, and it’s not every night this happens, but for now it’s really taking a toll. It’s hard seeing him go through this when effectively it feels like we’re looking after 2 completely different babies.

I (29F) just got married married to my husband a week ago. My sister (31F) has a 5 month old baby and both were at the wedding.
I don’t really like my sister’s personality and her partner broke up with her a few months ago who alleged she was an “exhibitionist” and our side of the family are starting to see why he left her. My sister would usually breastfeed openly in public and although I don’t have a problem with breastfeeding your child, I do think I’m not really tolerant of HOW she does it. Most women in my community will breastfeed in public too, but will ensure they move to a more private spot ( not the bathroom!) or bring nursing covers, and I don’t think it’s sexist and all, because I see that as a courteous thing. Being as kind as I can about my sister, I think she likes to make a statement and “challenge” the status quo ever since she was a child. She’s the type to flaunt about how she doesn’t give a fuck what others think about her and how she acts in public. So yea, she’s got some issues of her own because I cannot imagine someone being this angry at the world for no good reason.
Moving on to my wedding, I had a videographer panning the camera in the centre of the aisle as I’d walk down, which means guests would be in plain view. My sister doesn’t carry bottles with her and she would start nursing whenever baby needs to eat. I didn’t want this captured on camera and wanted to avoid any possibility of that happening (because aesthetics), so I situated her in one of the middle rows to ensure she’s concealed either way. The rest of the family including my cousins were seated in the front. I also requested the cameraman to avoid taking pictures of guests in case she’s openly breastfeeding during the reception as well.
My bridesmaids on the wedding day managed to handle my sister as later I got to know she threw a stink about feeling neglected and hardly any pictures captured with her baby. Apparently, she had been nursing (maybe also to calm the baby down) therefore the camera guy hired requested her to step out of the frame several times. Ngl, this made me want to tip him a little extra haha.
This has been a pattern of hers at several family events (she also has a 2 year old daughter who was present too that’s how we were able to discern this pattern from the past), and even some work events that she used to attend with her partner. All of us have made effort in the past to communicate with her, but she gets argumentative and I didn’t want to have to deal with her drama
Idc about being called prude. I didn’t want someone’s photo/videos with their chest out on my wedding regardless of context.
REMINDER I AM NOT OOP

I (29F) just got married married to my husband a week ago. My sister (31F) has a 5 month old baby and both were at the wedding.
I don’t really like my sister’s personality and her partner broke up with her a few months ago who alleged she was an “exhibitionist” and our side of the family are starting to see why he left her. My sister would usually breastfeed openly in public and although I don’t have a problem with breastfeeding your child, I do think I’m not really tolerant of HOW she does it. Most women in my community will breastfeed in public too, but will ensure they move to a more private spot ( not the bathroom!) or bring nursing covers, and I don’t think it’s sexist and all, because I see that as a courteous thing. Being as kind as I can about my sister, I think she likes to make a statement and “challenge” the status quo ever since she was a child. She’s the type to flaunt about how she doesn’t give a fuck what others think about her and how she acts in public. So yea, she’s got some issues of her own because I cannot imagine someone being this angry at the world for no good reason.
Moving on to my wedding, I had a videographer panning the camera in the centre of the aisle as I’d walk down, which means guests would be in plain view. My sister doesn’t carry bottles with her and she would start nursing whenever baby needs to eat. I didn’t want this captured on camera and wanted to avoid any possibility of that happening (because aesthetics), so I situated her in one of the middle rows to ensure she’s concealed either way. The rest of the family including my cousins were seated in the front. I also requested the cameraman to avoid taking pictures of guests in case she’s openly breastfeeding during the reception as well.
My bridesmaids on the wedding day managed to handle my sister as later I got to know she threw a stink about feeling neglected and hardly any pictures captured with her baby. Apparently, she had been nursing (maybe also to calm the baby down) therefore the camera guy hired requested her to step out of the frame several times. Ngl, this made me want to tip him a little extra haha.
This has been a pattern of hers at several family events (she also has a 2 year old daughter who was present too that’s how we were able to discern this pattern from the past), and even some work events that she used to attend with her partner. All of us have made effort in the past to communicate with her, but she gets argumentative and I didn’t want to have to deal with her drama
Idc about being called prude. I didn’t want someone’s photo/videos with their chest out on my wedding regardless of context.

Hi all,
I decided to make sticky post with the headline stuff that is needed to be known. I’ll start off stealing “starcentrals” (from DVX forum) recorder option post because I think it is pretty important. I have adjusted some prices though for recent eBay post
Recording options
12-bit 444 and 10-bit 444 up to 50p support
Codex-M

• 12-bit 444 DPX up to 30p
• From 31fps to 50 fps 10 bit 444 DPX uncompressed is possible
• Uses proprietary 512 mags
• Needs Data Transfer Unit for offloading
• Software is ONLY made for Intel Macs. M1 processors are, and will not, be supported

12-bit 444 and 10-bit 422 up to 50p support
Odyssey 7Q ~ $1200

• Wide range of codecs (some require licensing costs)
• Supports dual link (required to get 12-bit 444 or 10-bit 422 HD 50p)
• Only recorder that can do true slow motion (set project rate to 24p, and shoot 50p)
• 7.7" 1280x800 OLED touchscreen
• Uses proprietary drives
• Waveform, histogram, vectorscope, false color, zebras, 3D LUTs

Gemini ~ $495-$800 dependant on seller, since unit is EOL you can't buy it new

• Uncompressed RGB 12, and 10-Bit 444 Recording into DPX file format up to 29.97p
• Uses Convergent Design SSD media drives
• 5" 800 x 400 screen
• 1:1 pixel viewing
• Can do 12-bit 444 Uncompressed with AJA 3GM or LUT Box (see Film Scientist blog)

Pix E5/E7 ~ $900/1000
ProRes Proxy all the way up to Apple ProRes 4444 - Requires a AJA 3gm or AJA LUTbox

• 5"/7" 1920x1080 IPS touchscreen
• Uses SpeedDrive or mSATA drives
• Waveform, histogram, vectorscope, false color, zebras, peaking, 3D LUTs
• 2x or 4x tapZoom

Pix240i ~ No accurate price currently

• 10-bit 422 ProRes / DNxHD *Up to 30p only on F35
• No dual link but with SDI multiplexer (AJA 3GM for $800 USD) you can get 12-bit 444 ProRes or 10-bit 422 HD 50p
• 5" 800x480 IPS screen
• Supports 1:1 pixel viewing
• Uses Approved SSD drives
• False Color, 2-level zebras

Codex-S

• Limited to dual-link recording.

10-bit 422 up to 50p support
Blackmagic Video Assist ~ $495-$1000 depending on model

• 10-bit 422 ProRes / DNxHD *Up to 30p
• *Up to 50p with SDI multiplexer
• 5" 1920 x 1080 135 degree angle colour touch screen
• 6G-SDI
• Histogram, Zebra stripes, focus peaking
• Uses SD Card Media

Atomos Shogun / Ninja / Shinobi

• 10-bit 422 ProRes / DNxHD *Up to 30p
• *Up to 50p with SDI multiplexer
• 7" 1920 x 1200 colour touch screen
• 12G-SDI
• Waveform monitor, RGB parade display, Luma overlay, Vectorscope with zoom, focus peaking
• Uses HHD or SSD

10-bit 422 up to 30p support
AJA mini ki pro ~ $700

• 10-bit 422 ProRes *Up to 30p only
• Single Link 4:2:2
• Uses Compact Flash Cards

Atomos Samurai Blade ~ $500

• 10-bit 422 ProRes / DNxHD *Up to 30p only
• 5" 1280 x 720 IPS screen
• Single Link 4:2:2
• Uses standard HHD/SSD drives
• NO support for 1:1 pixel viewing
• Waveform, vectorscope, luma parade, RGB, false color, zebra, focus peaking.

Hyperdeck Shuttle V2 ~ $300

• 10-bit 422 ProRes / DNxHD / Uncompressed *Up to 30p only on F35
• Single Link 4:2:2
• Uses SSD Drives

Others
Sony SR-R1

• 10-bit 422 220Mb/s
• 10-bit 444 400Mb/s
• 12-bit 444 880Mb
• Uses SRMemory Cards

Sony SRW-1

• 422 1080p 60p
• 444 RGB
• Uses HDCAM-SR Video Cassettes

Teathered or wireless solutions
Blackmagic design ultrastudio mini recorder ~ $137

• F35 teathered via SDI for computer capture via thunderbolt
• 10-bit 422 up to 30p

Blackmagic Intensity Extreme ~ $280

• F35 teathered via SDI for computer capture via thunderbolt
• Will convert SDI to HDMI at device for extra monitoring if desired
• 10-bit 422 up to 30p

Teradek Bolt Pro 300 Wireless ~ $2990

• F35 wireless SDI transmitter to receiver with SDI *You still need a recording option
• 10-bit 422 up to 30p

EVF Options
Sony HDVF-C35W ~ $1500

• 3.5-inch type large LCD screen
• Accommodates multiple frame rates
• A detachable eye-piece design allows the user to directly view the LCD
• The 3x magnification function simplifies focus operation, especially when prime lenses are used
• Gray scale signals can be generated, allowing camera operators to easily adjust exposure to the appropriate level
• Color or monochrome display switchable
• Two assignable switches for switching to preset adjustment settings and for assigning frequently used functions
• Powered by camera

Sony HDVF-C30W ~ $500

• 2.7-inch type large TFT screen
• Accommodates multiple frame rates
• Gray scale signals can be generated, allowing camera operators to easily adjust exposure to the appropriate level
• Color or monochrome display switchable
• Two assignable switches for switching to preset adjustment settings and for assigning frequently used functions
• Powered by camera

Zacuto Gratical Eye ~ $995-$1995

• 0.61" OLED EVF
• 1280 x 1024 Resolution
• 3G-SDI Input
• Supports Resolutions up to 1080p/60
• Visual tools such as Zebra, Vectorscope, Waveform, Histogram, Peaking, False Color, Test Pattern
• LUT Creation and Import
• 1/4"-20 Rosettes for Mounting
• Powered externally using 2-Pin LEMO Power Input
• Needs external video input (such as the monitor 1/2 input off camera)

Zacuto Kameleon EVF Pro ~ $1595-$2495

• 0.71" OLED EVF, 10,000:1 Contrast
• HDMI & SDI Inputs
• 24-Bit RGB 1920 x 1080 Resolution, Up to DCI 4K HDMI, 1080p60 SDI Input
• Waveform, Vectorscope, Histogram, Peaking, False Color, SMPTE Color Bars
• Auto-Closing Eyecup Prevents Burn-In
• 3D LUT Import via USB Type-C Input
• 2 x 1/4"-20 ARRI Rosette Mounts
• Diopter Adjustment & 4:1 Zoom
• Powered externally through 4-Pin LEMO Power
• Needs external video input (such as the monitor 1/2 input off camera)

LUTs and Gammas
Official Sony
We have now gotten the true updated SLOG1 whitepaper as well, and I do suggest reading into it to understand how different SLOG1 is vs other log formats. In the same folder is also the .LUT files from Sony, and the 32-bit cube files that I personally have converted
User LUTs and Gammas
Current user LUTs have been made by Ryan Shaw, Art Parnitudom's AC, and which he was very nice to share. CSV files are made by Jo Kamimura.
How to access, it is all stored publicly in the folder:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folde...nY?usp=sharing
Hardware upgrades
Noctua NF-A4x10 FLX cooling fans ~ $40

• Almost dead silent even at max RPM
• Use less power
• Make sure to get the 12v version

Thermal Grizzly Minus 8 thermal pad ~ $45

• Cools up to 25% better than stock thermal pad
• Better fitting (stock pads are not well cut)
• Make sure to get 1.5 or 2mm version

GPIO Upgrade for Wet dock plate ~ $N/A

• Allows for camera to trigger any recording device that has GPIO port
• Makes fan slow down when in record
• Potentially let's use produce timecode
• Requires Wet Dock

Ethernet
This guide is from “The digital parade” and should work for both F35, and F23.
To access the F35's menu system via a computer over an Ethernet cable you first need to define or find out your laptop's IP address. On a Mac, since that's what I use, open up "System Preferences" and click on "Network". Open up your Ethernet preferences and note or write in your IP address.
Then open up the F35's main menu system by holding down the click-wheel and pressing the VF Menu / Display button. Open the "Network" menu and choose "IP Addr Set". You need to enter in your computer's IP address here with an additional numerical step. For example, if your laptop's IP address is 192.168.0.1 you should enter 192.168.0.2 as the F35's IP address.
Now comes the fun part. Connect a cross-over Ethernet cable from your computer to the camera and open up your web browser. This will work with Internet explorer 6 or 7, Firefox 3, and Safari 3. In your browser's address bar type in http:// plus the IP address you entered into the camera. In our example above, you would enter http://192.168.0.2 and hit enter. Now, behold, the almighty awesomeness of navigating the menu from your laptop!
Misc Information
Side panel power
The F35 can be powered using the IF box XLR input, or the 8 pin Lemo B input on the body. However the side panel, where you have the 24v Fischer, and the 11-pin lemo 12v, can *ONLY* be powered if you are using the 11-pin lemo for power.
Most existing cable makers does not offer LEMO-B nor 11-pin lemo cables. However several ones that have been working in the film business for +20 years do still stock the needed supplies to make a cable.

This is a long one so please bare with me.
For context/background I met my current partner when i was 17. I had just got out of an abusive relationship I had a lot of trust issues. I suffer from severe depression/anxiety due to being abused as a child. I recently got discharged from a mother and baby unit(loony bin for women with babies that are newborn upto 18months old).
When me and my partner started dating i was going through an incredibly difficult time in my life i battled with suicidal ideations daily and had already made many attempts on my life. I was a stoner which is how i met him as he was a dealer at the time. Start of the relationship was great we didn’t talk much if you know what i mean lol. We laughed and joked a lot & he was a much needed ray of light in my otherwise dark world. I had actually dated one of his friends briefly which i told him almost immediately when it was apparent that we were attracted to each-other. He said didn’t mind and things progressed slowly. At first he didn’t want to “put a label on things” as he said he didn’t really want a relationship and as i’d just escaped from an abusive relationship and honestly had no idea what a healthy relationship even was i said i didn’t mind but i knew i caught feelings easily so i asked what would happen if i caught feelings for him & he said we’d have to let it play out and see. Inevitably i caught feelings for him and tried to cool things off with him as i knew he wasn’t looking for a relationship and i didn’t want to get hurt. He was reluctant to call it off so i took that as a sign that he was catching feelings too and things continued to progress to a point where i felt i had to open up because lying to him about my scars & trying to keep my feelings/ suicidal tendencies at bay was becoming more difficult. I tried to break it off again because i didn’t really want to open up to him because i didn’t want him to think differently of me and i didnt want things to change between us & he was still being weird about the “labels” which made me feel like wouldn’t stick around, he assured me he really liked me and liked being around me n that it was getting to a stage where he wanted to call me his girlfriend but wasn’t sure yet because of my “past” i.e. me dating his friend previously which i felt was fair so we continued.
One night we got really high and i just kinda let everything out. I didn’t mean to trauma dump but i couldn’t hold it in any longer and i felt like everything had to be on table because he’d probably leave me later on if i waited until after he asked us to be official. He literally went silent didn’t say anything through out and when i was done he kinda awkwardly changed the subject n went on to play his game. I don’t know what i expected him to say or even what i wanted him to say but i just felt like that was a weird response n it made me feel mad anxious and worried. The next day he was weirdly distant and I felt like he saw me differently or hated me now n i never should’ve told him like literally every possible thought under the sun was going through my head. It went on like that for a few weeks until he just randomly went back to normal n because i didn’t want him to put that distance there again, i just went along with it.
Because of his lifestyle he wasn’t really able to spend what i would call quality time with me, knowing what i know now i understand why, but at the time I’d never dated a drug dealer before and i felt like he was purposely avoiding me because when id call he’d always be laughing and joking with someone else and sometimes id hear other girls in the background so i started to become really insecure and go through his phone. It was dumb and immature and i wish id never done it but at the time that’s what i needed for reassurance and id see somewhat flirtatious messages with him and other girls and confront him about it but he told me they were just customers n it meant nothing so i let it go. He kept making promises and making them such as he was supposed to take me out for my birthday but didn’t. Say he’d come and visit me in hospital but wouldn’t and after a while all of this resentment built up and we had a massive argument where i let it slip that i felt it was weird he said anything when i told him about my trauma and that i felt he wasn’t listening and didn’t care about me etc etc. He kinda just put it down to his lifestyle meaning he was busy and he was doing his best, i should’ve known what i was getting into when we started dating & what did i want him to say after saying all that. All fair points so i dropped it.
About a year into our relationship he went to prison for 3 months he didn’t contact me much during this time and by the time he was out i was pretty much in the mind that we should break it off as he still after all that time hadn’t made things official. I told him this when he came to visit n he basically said I love you i don’t wanna leave you n that i should’ve already known he sees me as a girlfriend as he’s never dealt with a girl the way he deals with me but if i really need a label then yes im his girlfriend. I was so happy that day that he finally put a label on what we were. Eventually the novelty wore off and things went back to how they were before he went to prison until around 9/10 ish months later he went back to prison for 1.5 years. During his time in there i was faithful to him we would talk everyday but he wasn’t happy that i was still hanging around my male friends and eventually i got to the point where i didn’t go out or interact with males because he’d always have an issue. To be fair it’s easy for him to have his doubts about me being faithful as he was in prison and had no idea what i was doing or getting upto while he was in there.
We got a lot closer while he was in there as he opened up a lot more with his feelings and we’d talk about all the things we were going to do when he got out which was nice. When he got out he came out on tag and with in a few days it was very apparent that he wasn’t going to keep any of the promises he made in there. I mean the man was on tag with a clear curfew and even then he didn’t wanna stay home with me or follow through with any plans we’d make together. I eventually got pregnant (something we spoke about when he was in prison) I was moving in with him and needed to pick up my things from my old house, he’d promised he’d come and help pack & load up the moving van but when it came to the morning to do it he refused to get up because he was “tired” I needed to be there for a certain time so i ended up leaving him at home expecting that when he woke up he’d meet me at my old place and help. He never showed and i ended up doing all of the packing and loading by myself. I was annoyed and tired because i was pregnant and i expected to get home and he’d help me unload the van. Only to find that he wasn’t home and it was almost his curfew time. I again ended up unpacking everything by myself and he didn’t get home until nearly an hour after his curfew was up. I was angry we got into a huge argument, he had no valid excuses to give me but eventually I calmed down n we were fine. I started bleeding the next day probably from the stress of everything so we rushed to the hospital and luckily everything was fine. After this we had a long talk where he basically said he was gonna get his act together but not long after that he ended up getting recalled and he was in prison until our first child was 8weeks old. By this point i had moved to a different city as it was cheaper & closer to my family and i didn’t want social services involved as they had hinted that due to my partners dealings with drugs if i continued to live with him social services would need to get involved. Even though our child was 8 weeks old when he got out it was another 2 weeks before he came to visit us for the first time. I wasn’t happy about this as again it seemed like he was going to break the promises he made while he was in prison. But i did my best to hold my tongue as i understood we were in very different spaces mentally at that time. At first he did his best to make up for the lost time which was much appreciated but as time went on his visits became shorter and less frequent. We’d constantly argue as i felt that i was essentially a single mother doing everything myself when we had this baby together. He made it about the fact that i moved so far away and that things would be different if i were closer but due to previous behaviours i found this very hard to believe. Eventually the relationship broke down to a point where i didn’t care if he was around or not and it was a normal thing for me to not hear from him for days at a time. Eventually his mum contacted me to ask if id heard from him so i called one of his friends which is how if found out he was back in prison and after the last time id told him if he goes back to prison we were done. His friend spun this elaborate story which although far fetched wasn’t really out of character for my partner so i believed him. He then begged me not to tell my partner that he had told me and i agreed because i knew what he was like. So when he eventually called me on the prison phone i didn’t care what he had to say, i was done. Even though he acknowledged i had said i was done if he went back to prison, he accused me of seeing someone else, saying that’s why i didn’t want to work things out which was not true and for the next month was calling me all times of the day and night trying to “talk”/ understand why i didn’t want to work things out. He knew i was exclusively breastfeeding and that i didn’t get a lot of sleep yet he continued to harass me going from being apologetic to angry and accusatory to accepting and wanting us just to be friends before going back to being angry until i eventually gave in and told him what his friend had told me especially as his friend had been watching my snap stories & reporting back to my partner about what i was posting. I then found out his friend had lied and my partner was understandably upset that id taken his friends word about what happened instead of talking to him about it first which i agreed was a little snakey but i was also so done with the whole situation at that point. I literally changed my entire life around when i found out i was pregnant to try and be the best person I could be for myself and for my baby so i didn’t understand why it was so hard for him to do the same.
Eventually after a lot of back and forth we got back together but once we were back together he was constantly putting me down snapping at me over little things and when i confronted him about it he basically told me i didn’t deserve the “nice” version of him anymore as i’d sided with his friend over him n put him through so much aggro. I admit i did say a lot of things that probably hurt him especially when i was sleep deprived and he was calling me non stop trying to talk i just let out all of the hurt pain & neglet id been feeling over the years and i told him how much i resented him for leaving me while i was pregnant leaving me to essentially be a single mother even after he got out of prison because he rarely came to visit. promising to move closer to us so we could be a family again only to not do that for dumb reasons. I just let it all out where usually id sugar coat everything i said it raw how i felt it and i know it probably hurt him but i couldn’t help how i felt especially not then. He held onto that as well as me believing his friend and held on so tight that anytime i had an issue with anything he did he’d throw those things back in my face shut down & there’d be no more talking until he was ready. This kept on happening and eventually i let it slip that when we broke up i had started dating he obviously flipped and then this became a problem too. We’d constantly get into arguments where i’d always be the problem even when the argument was caused by the fact that id be asking for money for our child or for him to visit more often or that i felt un supported and i was struggling physically & mentally (i have a metabolic disability too) some how the issue always lied with me. Several times we’d taken short breaks where we’d have an explosive argument and then he’d stop speaking to me for weeks at a time which obviously i had an issue with. The worst of which happened one night when i had gotten drunk with my friend and we decided to play dress up and go out as we both had a rare kid free weekend (my child was with my parents not my partner) There was an outfit she made me try on that made me feel super self conscious and exposed the scars on my arms she insisted i looked beautiful and told me to call my partner who would agree with her. I stupidly agreed and he didn’t pick up the phone. I muttered something to the effect of if it were one of his cats (clients) i bet he’d pick up the phone so she said let’s call him off her phone to which again i stupidly agreed. He answered almost immediately which made me laugh n i was like see n my friend was drunkenly trying to explain what we were doing and telling him to look at me and tell me i look good. During all of this he got a call and said one minute lemme take this which got my friend annoyed and she said it will literally take you 2 seconds to look at her and tell her she looks good you wouldn’t even be awake if it wasn’t for us calling right. he ignored her & she was getting even more annoyed on my behalf n i was just tryna continue our night having fun so i told her to hang up n leave it & she said no any man would wanna look & tell their girl how good she looks. The phone cut and he never called us back we got on with our night and woke up the next morning ready to prepare for going out the next evening. I tried to call him several times and he never picked up i texted he didn’t answer so i just left it and went about my day. When we were in the cab around 10pm he calls me with an attitude. I picked up on it straight away and asked what was wrong & he said nothing was wrong so i was like okay so why do you sound like that. He proceededs to tell me sound like what? you think i’m upset over your thotty behaviour. I’m confused so i’m like what are you talking about. He starts going off so i just said i’m in a cab on my way out i don’t have the energy to deal with this right now but before i could get that all out he starts accusing me of trying to make him jealous saying he doesn’t care if i’m going out and basically tells me if i hang up the phone don’t ever call or speak to him again and delete his number. I’m so confused because i still don’t understand why he’s upset and i’m just trying to have a much needed fun day with my friend so i’m trying to calm him down without making it awkward for my friend n he’s not having any of it so i ended up having to hang up. Me and my friend ended up having a good night out together and by the end of the night id decided me n him were done i couldn’t keep dealing with that level of abuse for almost nothing. Next morning my friend told me one of her friends liked how i was looking and wanted my snap i kinda thought fuck it why not and told her to give it to him. My partner didn’t contact me for almost 3 weeks during which time i’d started to talk to the guy my friend referred me to & even though it started of purely plutonic as the time went on things got more and more flirtatious.
After 3 weeks my partner calls me to ask to speak to his son. It was 10pm on a school and he knows our son goes to bed at 7pm. I told him this and he accuses me of keeping his son from him. I basically said you didn’t care about speaking to your son for 3 weeks so respectfully idgaf what you think. This obviously triggered an argument but eventually i got to understand that he was mad that day because he felt that my friend was out of turn for saying that any man would want to look and he felt like she was trying to suggest that we were going out to get the attention of men. To this day he still doesn’t believe that’s not what she was trying to do but i digress. He eventually admitted he overreacted and apologised but i told him the damage was done and that I didn’t want to continue the relationship. He insisted on coming to see me to “change my mind” i stood firm on my decision even when he was trying to have sex with me. About a month after this incident it was my son’s birthday so we travelled to his city so he could spend a few weeks with his Dad. When i got to his house he asked if we could talk so i left my son with his grandma and went upstairs to speak with him, he was trying to convince me we could make it work but i said we’d be better off co-parenting and he seemed to accept that then all of a sudden he decided he was going to go through my phone i tried to get it off him but he kinda threw me to the floor in my attempt. He went through my phone and obviously saw the flirtatious massages with aforementioned guy. He also found messages from the person i was dating the first time we broke up as well as a bunch of messages from guys i was talking to before we were even together( i don’t delete any thing) He flipped smashed my phone called me every name under the sun and also through my past traumas in my face. I honestly don’t know how or why but i ended up trying to prove to him that i’ve always been faithful to him n that i was sorry n that i wanted to make things work. To this day I look back on this situation and i don’t understand how we ended up back together or how i ended up wanting to make it work especially after everything he says. Those words still play in my mind like a broken record to this day. He demanded i do a lie detector to prove that i’ve never cheated on him & he wanted me to pay. I don’t know why but i did it even thought everyone around me was telling me it was a bad idea due to my anxiety but i wanted to prove to him that i wasn’t lying. I ended up passing the fuck out during the test but the tester managed to record the results which apparently showed i failed all 3 questions. He obviously lost his shit again i tried telling him it was false n that id never cheated but how can i argue with the results. We eventually ended up resuming the relationship but ever since then ive been walking on egg shells and he’d snap at the smallest of things e.g. one time i asked him to come to church with me and he laughed in my face & said hell no, i asked why he replied like that and he went off about how he doesn’t need church he’s done his time n how could i of all people with everything i’ve done tell him about needing to go to church. I didn’t say he needed to nor was i preaching at him i just simply asked if he wanted to come with me.
This type of behaviour continued and i got to the point where id decided we should stop trying to have another child as i didn’t feel we were in a good place and i was worried for my mental health and the fact that he still was living in a different city and was only visiting periodically (more often than previously but still only half the month). Its kinda funny because as soon as i decided i wanted us to stop trying like a month later i found out i was pregnant. I was happy but sad at the same time because the reality of my situation hit me like a ton of bricks. I told him he needed to move closer i couldn’t do this alone i needed him so he needed to get his shit together. He kept saying he was going to move but time kept going by and i didn’t feel enough effort was being made for him to come down. Even during all this time he would still go off over little things.
He ended up going back to prison again (this time it wasn’t actually his fault) but i ended up giving birth alone which took a huge hit on my mental health and i was admitted to the mother & baby unit. He’s been really nice since going into prison and he seems dead set on moving here and making things work between us which is reassuring but the pattern of behaviour he has always shown makes me doubt a lot. I do want to make things work especially now that we have 2 kids but i’m afraid to have the conversation around how he’s been treating me the past few years.
Things can’t go on like this because i don’t want to marry someone that i constantly have to be on egg shells around or someone who clearly thinks of me as trash when it suits him. As i write this I know things sounds bad but we did have good times and i do love him. i feel like if he’s willing to put in the work to understand why he blows up the way he does we could get back to how things were and have a beautiful marriage but i’m afraid im just romanticising things like i always do.
I don’t know whether i should just cut all ties and call it a day or give him the chance to be better so that we can be a family because my kids deserve that. And to be honest im not entirely confident that he’d let me go that easily.
If you made it this far thanks for taking the time to read it all. There’s alot i’ve left out because this is already so long so please feel free to ask questions.

Hi there,
25f, breastfeeding, 6 months postpartum. Hypothyroidism, ptsd. Currently taking 50mcg synthroid, 50mg setraline, pantoprazole.
Left upper abdominal/under rib pain for 1.5 years, swollen epitrochlear lymph nodes for 5 months (movable, squishy, largest is approx 0.5cm wide), now a new lymph node which I believe to be Virchows node 1cm long and about 0.5cm wide for about 4 weeks. Painless, movable, firm. Occasionally get random joint pain in wrists and knees. Most recent blood work was all normal except ANA was 80 and had patterns possibly indicitive of lupus plus 5.0tsh.
Just recently got over a 9 day bout of food poisoning (almost two weeks ago) and a small cold (few days ago)
Other tests/procedures in the last year
Prenatal ultrasound (June 2023) - normal Abdominal ultrasound (December 2023)- normal Breast ultrasound (December 2023) - dilated ducts and small likely benign cyst. Recheck in May/June Chest X ray (December 2023) - normal Neck ultrasound (February 2024)- normal Brain MRI (February 2024) - normal Colonoscopy (February 2024) - only hemmeroids
My main concern is the pain in my upper left quadrant/under ribs and lymph nodes. My doctor said to just monitor the likely Virchow node and prescribed the PPI to see if it will help with the pain due to having a normal ultrasound. However everywhere I read, it’s saying “cancer”. Any ideas please help

As interest in this treatment grows among those seeking effective solutions for androgenetic alopecia, so does the need for reliable, detailed information. Pyrilutamide, a promising selective androgen receptor antagonist, has sparked a wave of curiosity for its potential to combat hair loss by targeting the very hormones at its root. Whether you’re considering starting pyrilutamide, already using it, or simply exploring your options, you likely have questions about its efficacy, safety, application, and how it compares to other treatments. This section aims to address the most asked questions, providing insights based on current research, clinical trials, and user experiences. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, helping you make informed decisions in your journey toward improved hair health.

WHAT IS PYRILUTAMIDE AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Pyrilutamide is a selective androgen receptor antagonist being investigated for its potential to treat androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) by targeting the hormonal root cause of this condition. It works by blocking the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles, preventing the hormone-induced hair thinning and loss, thereby potentially halting or reversing the progression of hair loss.
Pyrilutamide has demonstrated potential in treating hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia, by selectively blocking androgen receptors in hair follicles to prevent the effects of DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. Early clinical trials and user experiences suggest it may improve hair density and promote regrowth, though its effectiveness can vary among individuals. Comprehensive studies are ongoing to better understand its efficacy and safety profile.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF PYRILUTAMIDE?

The side effects of pyrilutamide, particularly in the context of treating hair loss, can include scalp irritation, such as redness, itching, and dryness, as well as potential increases in acne due to its hormonal mechanism of action. While these are among the most commonly reported adverse effects, the full spectrum of side effects is still being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials to understand the broader implications of pyrilutamide’s use.

HOW IS PYRILUTAMIDE APPLIED, AND WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED DOSAGE?

Pyrilutamide is typically applied topically to the scalp in the form of a solution or lotion. The recommended dosage and frequency of application are determined based on ongoing clinical trials and may vary, but initial guidance suggests once daily application. The exact dosage and treatment regimen should be followed as prescribed by a healthcare professional, but the common available dosage is 0.5%.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS FROM PYRILUTAMIDE

Results from pyrilutamide treatment for hair loss can vary among individuals, but initial improvements may be observed within a few months of consistent use. However, it might take up to six months or longer to see significant hair regrowth or a substantial decrease in hair loss, as hair growth cycles and response to treatment can differ from person to person.

CAN PYRILUTAMIDE BE USED BY BOTH MEN AND WOMEN?

Yes, pyrilutamide can be used by both men and women for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, as it targets the androgen receptors in hair follicles, which are implicated in hair loss in both genders. However, the effectiveness and side effect profile may vary between men and women, and it’s important for individuals to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if pyrilutamide is an appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

HOW DOES PYRILUTAMIDE COMPARE TO FINASTERIDE OR MINOXIDIL?

Pyrilutamide works by directly blocking androgen receptors in hair follicles, potentially avoiding systemic side effects associated with finasteride, a systemic DHT inhibitor. Unlike minoxidil, which stimulates hair growth without addressing the hormonal cause of hair loss, pyrilutamide targets the underlying hormonal mechanism. This makes pyrilutamide a promising option for those seeking targeted treatment for androgenetic alopecia, though its efficacy and safety profile are still under investigation compared to the well-established effects of finasteride and minoxidil.

IS PYRILUTAMIDE SAFE FOR LONG-TERM USE?

The long-term safety of pyrilutamide for treating hair loss is still being evaluated through ongoing clinical trials and research. While initial studies show promise, comprehensive data on the effects of prolonged use are necessary to fully understand its safety profile. Users and healthcare providers are encouraged to stay informed on the latest research findings as they become available.

WILL STOPPING PYRILUTAMIDE TREATMENT REVERSE ITS EFFECTS?

Discontinuing pyrilutamide treatment may lead to a reversal of its effects on hair growth, as the underlying hormonal factors contributing to hair loss, such as DHT’s action on hair follicles, will no longer be inhibited. It’s common for any regained hair density or reduction in hair loss achieved during treatment to gradually diminish once the treatment is stopped, typically returning to pre-treatment levels.

CAN PYRILUTAMIDE BE COMBINED WITH OTHER HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS?

Combining pyrilutamide with other hair loss treatments, such as minoxidil or low-level laser therapy, may enhance overall results by targeting different pathways of hair growth and loss. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any combination therapy to ensure compatibility and avoid potential adverse effects. Each treatment can offer complementary benefits, but professional guidance is crucial for safe and effective use.

WHO SHOULD NOT USE PYRILUTAMIDE?

Pyrilutamide may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those allergic to its components. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using pyrilutamide due to the potential for hormonal effects. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if pyrilutamide is appropriate for you, considering your medical history and any potential contraindications.

HOW DOES PYRILUTAMIDE AFFECT HORMONAL BALANCE?

Pyrilutamide acts selectively at androgen receptors in hair follicles to block the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a key hormone involved in androgenetic alopecia, without significantly altering systemic hormone levels. However, as with any treatment that affects hormone action, there’s a potential for indirect effects on the overall hormonal balance, though such impacts are expected to be minimal due to its targeted action. Ongoing research aims to clarify any broader hormonal implications of pyrilutamide use.

ARE THERE ANY LIFESTYLE OR DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS WHILE USING PYRILUTAMIDE?

There are no specific lifestyle or dietary recommendations uniquely associated with using pyrilutamide for hair loss. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can support overall hair health and potentially enhance the effectiveness of hair loss treatments. It’s always beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your health needs and treatment plan.

CONCLUSION

The intrigue surrounding pyrilutamide as a promising treatment for androgenetic alopecia has led to a plethora of questions regarding its efficacy, safety, application, and comparison to existing therapies. Through addressing the most commonly asked questions, we’ve shed light on what pyrilutamide is, how it works, its potential side effects, and its place within the broader landscape of hair loss treatments. While the promise of pyrilutamide is significant, emphasizing its targeted approach and minimal systemic impact, it’s clear that ongoing research and clinical trials are crucial to fully understand its benefits and limitations. As we await more comprehensive data, the dialogue between patients and healthcare providers remains essential for navigating treatment options. The journey towards finding effective solutions for hair loss continues, with pyrilutamide representing a hopeful step forward for many individuals seeking to regain not just their hair, but also their confidence and quality of life.
SHOP FOR PYRILUTAMIDE AND OTHER HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/gallery/aqNOptw
I got these, I don’t need these, you guys get screaming deals. Comment then pm, PayPal FF, G+S you pay fee. Shipped priority w/ insurance, open to offers, or trades for a holosun MOS or Steiner MPS pistol dot, a nice billet stripped upper, and quality 5.56/.300blk/.308 barrels/ BCGs. Brakes are numbered. .338 works with .30 cal stuff. Threaded to fit ar stuff, flush fit on .936 bull barrels.
Christensen Spartan carbon fiber bipod, Spartan pic rail adaptor, and rifle/chassis screw on adaptor, all unused/never mounted or shot. $180
Dpms pattern billet .308 upper, unknown make, NIB, no mock up or mounting ever. Can lap receiver face if desired before shipping $75
1- .338, stainless, tunable, side baffle brake 5/8-24 $80
2- .338, titanium, radial brake, 5/8-24 $110
3- .338, stainless, 5/8-24, non tuneable, side baffle brake, $70
4- .338, titanium, 5/8-24, tuneable side baffle, $105
5- .338, 5/8-24, stainless, radial brake, $70
UPPER 1- BCM star forge upper and completion kit, receiver lapped, barrel thermal fit, Shaw Custom 11.5” 5.56 heavy profile, carbine gas, ballistic advantage/aero handguard, Larue Tranquilo brake/mount, BCM logo BCG, BCM/VLTOR Gunfighter charging handle, Sig MSR red dot. New/unfired other than brake and bcg. Brake is clean, tiny spot of corrosion inside I haven’t cleaned up yet, and bcg which is sub 100 rounds per previous owner, None by me, cleaned, checked, and reassembled.
-Stripped (no bcg/ch/dot) $325 -With bcg/ch $460 -With msr $510
UPPER 2- BCM star forge upper, teardrop forward assist, magpul poly dust cover, receiver lapped, Shaw custom 10.5” light profile 5.56 barrel, .750 journal, carbine gas, full cut Melonite birdcage, Mlok 9.75” Ghost handguard. $265 TYD, add bcg/ch/sig msr for prices above, will add them to either upper.
If prices are off, let me know. Open to offers. Get in touch. Going to a concert Monday, need pocket money. Make an offer on the brakes, I wanna get em gone.

• Why do you want to have children?
  • Do you want something to love? Someone to carry on your family name? Do you see it as the next step in your relationship? The clock is ticking? It's what you're "supposed to do"?
• What do you know about children and childcare?
  • Do you know people with children? How have their lives and reponsibilities changed?
    • Having children can impact your health, relationships, social life, free time, work, ability to travel
  • Have you ever looked after children - which ages, for how long?
  • Do you know about the expected developmental milestones?
  • Do you know what sort of things a child needs and what they cost or if it's safe/possible to get them second hand?
  • Are there legal considerations? Things like protections as an employee, benefits you can apply for, other paperwork you'll have to do like registering the birth/with schools, what if you're unmarried and something happens to you?
• Are you financially able?
  • Your circumstances can change, how much of a safety net do you have?
  • Some things such as car seats, pacifiers, food or hygeine items cannot be safely gotten for cheap
  • Think about food, clothes, comfort items like teddies and blankets, buggies/prams, toys, baby gates, bedding, medicines, etc.
  • Are there services that you can use if you fall on hard times?
• Would you (and your partner) be a good parent/carer?
  • Can you provide routine, structure and consistency/stability?
    • If you already struggle with time management or mental health you may will want to work on that first
    • A child's main care givers should ideally be consistently available, no coming and going
    • Can you love them unconditionally?
  • Can you model the healthy behaviours you would want your child to have? Do as I say not as I do is famously ineffective with kids
    • E.g. coping methods, conflict resolution skills, eating/sleeping patterns, screen time, healthy communication etc
  • Can you handle a young child wanting constant access to your attention, or your body - for comfort, being carried, breastfeeding?
  • Are you prepared to handle urine, feces, snot, drool, spitup and vomit, food debris, unexplained stickiness and a general incomprehension of basic hygiene practices?
  • Can you imagine being patient and understanding through screaming, crying, tantrums, hitting, being told hurtful things? Even when exhausted, sick, overwhelmed?
  • Can you imagine yourself explaining various concepts in age appropriate ways?
  • Can you say what safety concerns are for children of different ages and how you would address them?
  • Can you say how you would raise a child to be a functioning member of society?
  • Do you have any disabilities or other mental/physical health conditions that would impact you differently to the average parent and how can you accomodate for that?
  • If the worst happens and you needed to do this alone, could you?
• Is your living situation suitable?
  • Is your home a safe, healthy environment? In good repair, no air pollution (including smoking)/pests/lead paint/crime/fire or electrical hazards
  • Can you adequately baby proof the place?
    • Head traps, strangulation/choking/drowning hazards
    • Potential big falls, sharp corners, unyielding surfaces, topple-able furniture or other heavy objects
    • Access to sharp or fragile things, medications, drugs, household chemicals, batteries, things that could burn (heating, kitchen)
  • Will you be able to provide a safe place to sleep and keep the room warm and humid enough?
  • Do you have enough space for all the extra stuff and to let them play?
  • If you have pets will they be safe for the child? (Aggression, pathogens)
  • Is there a safe outdoor area they can play in nearby?
  • Is the area in general safe and are there good daycares, schools
    • Note daycares often have crazy long waitlists - worth an enquiry
• Who else might be involved?
  • Consider: current or former intimate partners, family, other habitants of your home/building, local daycares, babysitters and schools. What about your neighbourhood, country or even the world in general - do you think it's a good environment to bring a child into?
  • If you have a partner, how well do you know them? Can you trust them to pull their weight?
    • If you ever break up how would that work?
    • Will one of you be a stay at home parent or work part time? How long?
    • Do you agree on how many children to have?
  • Do you agree with potential carers on how to raise the child?
    • If it matters if they're girls/boys
    • Discipline - expected behaviours, acceptable punishments
    • Religion or cultural practices, political views - would it matter if the child turns out to be LGTBQ+?
    • Languages spoken
    • People they should/shouldn't be in contact with - family, family friends, child's friends, child's potential partners
    • Education and extracurriculars, Career expectations
    • Diet - are there differing ideas on healthy food/too many treats, vegetarian/vegan? religious restrictions?
    • Potential names
  • If something happens to you, who will end up with your child? If the default custody is with someone you wouldn't trust, can you make legal arrangments to prevent that?
• Are you prepared for pregnancy and labor? (Assuming not adopting, see below)
  • Consider the "normal pregnancy" but also the rarer risks.
    • Please keep in mind that struggles conceiving or miscarriage can be more common than people think
  • While conceiving, carrying and breastfeeding there will be restrictions on your dietary intake, drinking, and recreational or medicinal substances.
  • Some activities are ill advised in late pregnancy such as heavy lifting, heavy exertion and anything that risks a fall - e.g. cycling
  • Does your job present hazards for a pregnant person such as heavy lifting or exposure to disease, dangerous chemicals or radiation?
  • Are there heritable illnesses or family history of pregancy complications to worry about?
  • What healthcare options are there for you for all stages of pregnancy, birth and after? Can you check reviews for them?
  • Do you have a vision in mind for the birth?
• Planning an adoption?
  • What do you need to do to adopt/foster?
  • Would you be equipped to handle children with difficulties from past situations?
    • Triggers, coping strategies, other learned innapropriate behaviours from neglect/abuse, food insecurity, other trauma such as accidental death or murder
    • Will they need special care such as therapy or treatment for medical issues?
  • How will they be treated if you have biological children?
  • Will others in your family treat them as family or will they be favored less?